A 9th grade Greenwich High School student stepped beyond the classroom and into the field this spring as part of the SoundWaters Research Intensive (SRI), where students investigated Long Island Sound through hands-on, inquiry-driven research. Alisia Ortiz from Greenwich High School gained firsthand experience conducting field-based scientific studies.
From right to left: Greenwich High School student Alisia Ortiz poses with her project partners Nicole Flores-Rodriguez from AITE and Maksymilian Majewski from Stamford High School before their presentation. Photo credit: SoundWaters
Based at the Cohen SoundWaters Harbor Center on Stamford Harbor, SRI allows high school students to conduct original studies in marine science, biodiversity, water quality and climate-related environmental changes. Ortiz researched settling organism populations alongside Maksymilian Majewski of Stamford High School and Nicole Flores-Rodriguez of Stamford’s Academy of Information Technology & Engineering.
“One of the most rewarding parts of this program is seeing students grow into confident young researchers,” said SoundWaters Director of Education Christina Genz. “They leave with real-world field experience, stronger analytical skills and a greater understanding of the importance of Long Island Sound.”
Scholarships for SRI are made possible through generous support from the Munzer Foundation, 11th Hour Racing and the Pettee Family.
SoundWaters prepares the next generation for their future. With our climate in crisis, we teach tomorrow’s leaders the science they will need. With Long Island Sound as our classroom, we create love and respect for the natural world. As a matter of justice, we open the water to all. As a matter of urgency, we work to protect our common home. For more information, visit soundwaters.org.